Setting Expectations for the Gospel in Genesis for Anchor Church in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Abstract
SETTING EXPECTATIONS FOR THE GOSPEL IN GENESIS FOR ANCHOR CHURCH IN TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA
Harvey Ashley Edwards IV, D.Min.
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2018
Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Miguel G. Echevarría
This project defends the notion that Genesis sets the expectations for the gospel by introducing the main characters, the intended purpose of creation, the main problem that exists within creation, and expectations for how that problem will be addressed. The intent is to demonstrate that the promise of a seed of the woman who will crush the head of the serpent in Genesis 3:15 is understood and developed foundationally in Genesis as humanity’s hope to be set right with God and that this is consistent with the rest of Scripture.
Chapter 1 shows how an understanding of Genesis is imperative to grasping the narrative of Scripture. This chapter validates the need for a biblical-theological understanding of Scripture. The foundation for the assumptions later biblical authors make are laid in Genesis.
Chapter 2 demonstrates how Genesis sets the foundational assumptions of our story and how it is to be read. It introduces the reader to the creator God, his special creation of humanity, the deceiving serpent, the tension introduced by sin, and the first glimmer of hope that things will one day be restored.
Chapter 3 reveals the depths to which humanity has fallen. It demonstrates that though people have hearts that are utterly sinful and broken, God continues provide a promised seed through which he will redeem his creation.
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Chapter 4 clarifies the method through which God will bring salvation. It introduces the idea of a chosen seed through whom God will bless the nations.
Chapter 5 explores a pattern for the promised deliverer and begins to answer the question of how an unrighteous person can be counted as righteous. It demonstrates that salvation has always been through faith in the promises of God.
Chapter 6 shows the nature of faith in the promises of God. Through this faith people are shaped into who God desires them to be. It also introduces the depth of God’s love for his people.
Chapter 7 explains that though Genesis does not fully answer the question of how sinful mankind can be restored to a right relationship with God, it does teach the reader what to look for as God unfolds his plan for redemption in history. God is working out his covenant promises and is faithful to bring them about by his power even when one is unable to see his hand at work.